Mango industry confronts climate as PHDEC rallies growers

KARACHI: Pakistan’s mango industry, the fifth-largest in the world, is ramping up efforts to tackle climate-driven challenges after a key webinar organised by the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) addressed worsening crop malformation and pest outbreaks, a statement said.

Held on April 24, the virtual event brought together mango growers, processors, researchers and industry stakeholders from Sindh and Punjab, where the bulk of the country’s 1.8 million metric tonnes of annual mango production is concentrated across 421,000 acres.

Speakers warned that climate variability, including prolonged winters and delayed ripening, is exacerbating pest and disease pressures. Participants were urged to adopt climate-resilient orchard management practices to sustain the country’s competitiveness in global mango markets. Horticulture expert Lemon Kumar detailed how dense, unpruned orchards contribute to the spread of mango malformation and hopper infestations. He stressed that timely pruning, improved orchard ventilation, and early detection of disease were critical. Kumar explained the two types of mango malformation -- vegetative and reproductive -- and recommended the prompt removal and safe disposal of infected plant parts through burning or deep burial to prevent further spread.

Dr Noor-un-Nisa, an expert in orchard establishment, underscored the role of certified mango nurseries in boosting orchard health and productivity. She presented advanced budding, grafting, and transplanting techniques to produce disease-resistant, high-yield saplings, describing nursery development as central to strengthening the industry’s resilience.

Climate change has disrupted traditional growing cycles and intensified pest threats in Pakistan’s mango belt, prompting urgent calls for more sustainable practices. Rising global demand for fresh and processed mango products offers an opportunity, but growers must adapt quickly, the PHDEC said.

The event closed with a call for regular orchard maintenance, integrated pest management, and stronger links between growers and research institutions. The PHDEC pledged to continue its support with further webinars and on-ground training initiatives to help future-proof the sector.